Decarbonized cement from Germany:
Heidelberg Materials’ project GeZero enters crucial
technical planning phase
The Front-End Engineering Design represents the detailed technical planning for the GeZero decarbonization project—the first large-scale CO2 capture and storage facility of Heidelberg Materials in Germany. In October, a contract was signed between Heidelberg Materials and Fluor Corporation following a several-month selection process. With the awarding of the contract, GeZero enters a crucial technical planning phase. The technical planning is expected to be completed by next spring, with construction set to begin in 2026.
Christian Knell, spokesperson of the management of Heidelberg Materials Germany, stated: “With GeZero, the first inland CCS facility on an industrial scale, we are pioneering in the German market. Good and methodical preparation is essential for large projects of this kind. Therefore, collaboration on the FEED study with such an experienced partner is a crucial factor for the further implementation of the project.”
GeZero utilizes advanced oxyfuel technology for CO2 capture in combination with a CO2 purification and liquefaction plant. To pave the way for inland CCS facilities, a CO2 transport solution via rail is part of the planning until the necessary pipeline infrastructure is available. Additionally, a local CO2 storage hub is to be developed as an interim storage facility. The energy requirements for the operation of the facility will be met entirely by renewable energies. A new photovoltaic system in the vicinity of the plant will help meet this demand.
GeZero is funded by the EU Innovation Fund, which focuses on flagship projects with European added value that can lead to significant emissions reductions.
